Advocate

Advocates began working to outlaw chattel slavery in the 18th century, and it took almost 300 years to legally abolish it in every country. Though it's finally illegal, advocates still work to fully prevent it, hold enslavers accountable and empower survivors with tools for true freedom.

Elected officials keep track of the issues that matter to their constituents. Call their offices, and let them know you'd like to see their support on anti-trafficking bills. Find your Congressman here, and then find your Senators here.

Ways to advocate for anti-trafficking policies:

1. Advocate for Anti-Trafficking Policies in Your State

In the U.S., states control their own legislation, enforcement and related appropriations for anti-trafficking policies. Urge your local representatives to pass and support bills that help end enslavement in the United States. Check out Polaris and Shared Hope International to see which policies currently need support in your state, and add your voice! 

2. Support Policies That Do Not Treat Victims as Criminals

Instead, governments should provide survivors with comprehensive services and access to justice. Safe harbor laws prevent victims from being prosecuted and provides them with specialized services.

3. Advocate for Supply Chain Transparency

Corporations and government supply chains should be free from human trafficking and slavery, but many of our products are touched by slave laborers throughout the world. Encourage businesses to conduct operations with greater transparency. Send them a letter.

4. Ask Your Representatives to Fully Fund Anti-Trafficking Work

Ask your representatives to back up their commitment to end slavery with budgets that fully fund critical programs and policies. For additional information on suggested policies, see the Alliance to End Slavery and Trafficking (ATEST).